Overview of noun softening

The noun softening has 1 sense

• softening -- (the process of becoming softer; "refrigeration delayed the softening of the fruit"; "he observed the softening of iron by heat")

Overview of verb soften

The verb soften has 7 senses

• soften -- (make (images or sounds) soft or softer)


• dampen, damp, soften, weaken, break -- (lessen in force or effect; "soften a shock"; "break a fall")


• yield, relent, soften -- (give in, as to influence or pressure)


• cushion, buffer, soften -- (protect from impact; "cushion the blow")


• mince, soften, moderate -- (make less severe or harsh; "He moderated his tone when the students burst out in tears")


• soften -- (make soft or softer; "This liquid will soften your laundry")


• soften -- (become soft or softer; "The bread will soften if you pour some liquid on it")

Overview of adj softening

The adj softening has 1 sense

• demulcent, emollient, salving, softening -- (having a softening or soothing effect especially to the skin)